I could not refuse to let the woman see her daughter.
They spoke together for a time; and then they called me, and Marie--yes, Marie herself--begged me to let her see the duke.

So they came here where we stand, and I stood a few yards off.

They talked earnestly in low tones.
And at last Marie came to me (the others remaining where they were), and took my hand and kissed it, thanking me and bidding me adieu.

I was grieved, sir, for I trusted that the girl had found peace here; and she was in the way to make us love her.

'Does your mother bid you go ?' I asked, 'And will she save you from all harm ?' And she answered: 'I go of my own will, Mother; but I go hoping to return.' 'You swear that you go of your own will ?' I asked.